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Brazil 1-0 Ecuador: Willian strike enough for Selecao
A first-half Willian strike ensured Brazil claimed their second consecutive 1-0 victory under new coach Dunga, as they edged Ecuador in a friendly in New Jersey on Tuesday.
Dunga's reign in charge of the Selecao has now overseen two clean sheets, following a World Cup campaign which ended with them conceding ten in just two games.
The Brazilians still had cause for concern at the back against Sixto Vizuete's men, but they held firm for another narrow win courtesy of the Chelsea midfielder's 31st-minute goal.
Dunga made just two changes to his the side which beat 10-man Colombia on Friday, with Maicon - banished from the squad due to an "internal problem" - and the injured David Luiz (knee) replaced by Danilo and Marquinhos.
Brazil took the lead after a fine move from a set piece after half an hour, a goal which particularly pleased Dunga after his team spent Monday’s training session working extensively on free kicks and corners.
Standing over the dead ball, Oscar played it short to Neymar whose lofted ball through found Willian for a simple finish.
Ecuador responded well to going behind, with Enner Valencia almost equalising just four minutes later when his low drive rattled Jefferson’s near post.
Neymar, the match-winner against Colombia on Friday, almost doubled Brazil’s lead but could only hit the underside of the crossbar from close range.
Ecuador continued to press and they had few better chances than a header from Valencia which was cleared off the line by Filipe Luis on the hour mark.
The West Ham forward connected at the back post from a well-weighted cross from the right, but his goal-bound effort was first parried by Jefferson before Filipe Luis acrobatically cleared with the outside of his left boot.
The game was end-to-end for much of the second half, with Dunga swinging five changes throughout the period as he trialled the likes of Fernandinho, Elias, Philippe Coutinho, Ricardo Goulart and Everton Ribeiro.
Brazil's had another chance to seal the match when Neymar after he was fouled on the edge of the area in the 80th minute.
However, the attacker's shot from the dead ball was deflected wide by Ecuador's Walter Ayovi - and was incorrectly ruled a goal-kick by central referee Edvin Jurisevic.
It did not matter, though, as Brazil made it back-to-back victories since their calamitous World Cup campaign ended with consecutive heavy defeats.
A first-half Willian strike ensured Brazil claimed their second consecutive 1-0 victory under new coach Dunga, as they edged Ecuador in a friendly in New Jersey on Tuesday.
Dunga's reign in charge of the Selecao has now overseen two clean sheets, following a World Cup campaign which ended with them conceding ten in just two games.
The Brazilians still had cause for concern at the back against Sixto Vizuete's men, but they held firm for another narrow win courtesy of the Chelsea midfielder's 31st-minute goal.
Dunga made just two changes to his the side which beat 10-man Colombia on Friday, with Maicon - banished from the squad due to an "internal problem" - and the injured David Luiz (knee) replaced by Danilo and Marquinhos.
Brazil took the lead after a fine move from a set piece after half an hour, a goal which particularly pleased Dunga after his team spent Monday’s training session working extensively on free kicks and corners.
Standing over the dead ball, Oscar played it short to Neymar whose lofted ball through found Willian for a simple finish.
Ecuador responded well to going behind, with Enner Valencia almost equalising just four minutes later when his low drive rattled Jefferson’s near post.
Neymar, the match-winner against Colombia on Friday, almost doubled Brazil’s lead but could only hit the underside of the crossbar from close range.
Ecuador continued to press and they had few better chances than a header from Valencia which was cleared off the line by Filipe Luis on the hour mark.
The West Ham forward connected at the back post from a well-weighted cross from the right, but his goal-bound effort was first parried by Jefferson before Filipe Luis acrobatically cleared with the outside of his left boot.
The game was end-to-end for much of the second half, with Dunga swinging five changes throughout the period as he trialled the likes of Fernandinho, Elias, Philippe Coutinho, Ricardo Goulart and Everton Ribeiro.
Brazil's had another chance to seal the match when Neymar after he was fouled on the edge of the area in the 80th minute.
However, the attacker's shot from the dead ball was deflected wide by Ecuador's Walter Ayovi - and was incorrectly ruled a goal-kick by central referee Edvin Jurisevic.
It did not matter, though, as Brazil made it back-to-back victories since their calamitous World Cup campaign ended with consecutive heavy defeats.
Norway 0-2 Italy: Zaza and Bonucci seal win for Azzurri
Antonio Conte's perfect start as Italy coach continued as his side began Euro 2016 qualifying with a 2-0 win in Norway on Tuesday.
Goals from Simone Zaza and Leonardo Bonucci sealed a comfortable Group H triumph in Oslo amid the four-time world champions again looking at home in Conte's 3-5-2 formation.
Expectations were high in Italy as the 45-year-old, who took the reins having led Juventus to three successive Serie A titles, oversaw his first competitive game.
And his Italy team did not disappoint, showing the same flair that earned a 2-0 friendly win over Netherlands in the head coach's maiden match last week.
From the moment that Zaza set them on their way in the 16th minute, Italy assumed complete control in a performance of craft and guile.
Norway had little answer and were left to contemplate a seven consecutive game without tasting victory, while Italy's win came at a cost as Ciro Immobile left the field on a stretcher late on.
Italy were without talisman Andrea Pirlo - who recently revealed a conversation with former club coach Conte persuaded him to postpone a planned international retirement - through injury.
Yet his absence did not show as the visitors pressed forward initially, with wing-backs Mattia De Sciglio and Matteo Darmian causing Norway problems.
The upshot was early waves of attacks from Conte's men as Norway struggling to retain possession.
Italy's endeavour brought early reward as Zaza broke the deadlock.
Having received De Sciglio's pass following a clever Immobile dummy, he unleashed a powerful effort that deflected off the inside of Havard Nordtveit's leg and beyond Orjan Nyland.
To their credit, Norway initially responded impressively as Joshua King hit a shot just over the crossbar.
Italy continued to threaten as well, though, with Emanuele Giaccherini stinging Nyland's hands from distance.
Giaccherini went close again just before the break when a powerful volley went narrowly wide following a superb counter-attack.
There was plenty of quality on show after half-time from Italy, although their impressive play did not lead to many openings.
That seemed to give the home side confidence as they grew into the game, even if their final ball left something to be desired.
And Norway were rueing their failure to capitalise on good possession in the 62nd minute when Bonucci met Manuel Pasqual's cross with a powerful header that flew into the net.
That goal seemed to knock the wind out of the hosts' sails, and they were relieved not to fall three behind when De Sciglio forced Nyland into a solid save.
Nyland had to be on high alert again in the 77th minute, producing a fine stop with his foot to deny Alessandro Florenzi's follow-up after Zaza had rattled the crossbar.
And even when they beat the goalkeeper, Italy could not grab a third with Vegard Forren producing a superb goalline clearance as Zaza was denied again.
That proved the final opportunity, although the game ended on a sour note for Italy when Immobile was forced to leave the field on a stretcher.
Antonio Conte's perfect start as Italy coach continued as his side began Euro 2016 qualifying with a 2-0 win in Norway on Tuesday.
Goals from Simone Zaza and Leonardo Bonucci sealed a comfortable Group H triumph in Oslo amid the four-time world champions again looking at home in Conte's 3-5-2 formation.
Expectations were high in Italy as the 45-year-old, who took the reins having led Juventus to three successive Serie A titles, oversaw his first competitive game.
And his Italy team did not disappoint, showing the same flair that earned a 2-0 friendly win over Netherlands in the head coach's maiden match last week.
From the moment that Zaza set them on their way in the 16th minute, Italy assumed complete control in a performance of craft and guile.
Norway had little answer and were left to contemplate a seven consecutive game without tasting victory, while Italy's win came at a cost as Ciro Immobile left the field on a stretcher late on.
Italy were without talisman Andrea Pirlo - who recently revealed a conversation with former club coach Conte persuaded him to postpone a planned international retirement - through injury.
Yet his absence did not show as the visitors pressed forward initially, with wing-backs Mattia De Sciglio and Matteo Darmian causing Norway problems.
The upshot was early waves of attacks from Conte's men as Norway struggling to retain possession.
Italy's endeavour brought early reward as Zaza broke the deadlock.
Having received De Sciglio's pass following a clever Immobile dummy, he unleashed a powerful effort that deflected off the inside of Havard Nordtveit's leg and beyond Orjan Nyland.
To their credit, Norway initially responded impressively as Joshua King hit a shot just over the crossbar.
Italy continued to threaten as well, though, with Emanuele Giaccherini stinging Nyland's hands from distance.
Giaccherini went close again just before the break when a powerful volley went narrowly wide following a superb counter-attack.
There was plenty of quality on show after half-time from Italy, although their impressive play did not lead to many openings.
That seemed to give the home side confidence as they grew into the game, even if their final ball left something to be desired.
And Norway were rueing their failure to capitalise on good possession in the 62nd minute when Bonucci met Manuel Pasqual's cross with a powerful header that flew into the net.
That goal seemed to knock the wind out of the hosts' sails, and they were relieved not to fall three behind when De Sciglio forced Nyland into a solid save.
Nyland had to be on high alert again in the 77th minute, producing a fine stop with his foot to deny Alessandro Florenzi's follow-up after Zaza had rattled the crossbar.
And even when they beat the goalkeeper, Italy could not grab a third with Vegard Forren producing a superb goalline clearance as Zaza was denied again.
That proved the final opportunity, although the game ended on a sour note for Italy when Immobile was forced to leave the field on a stretcher.
Andorra 1-2 Wales: Bale bags double but Ramsey limps off
A dramatic late goal from Gareth Bale gave Wales an unconvincing 2-1 win over Andorra in their Euro 2016 qualifier on Tuesday.
With two automatic qualification spots and one play-off place up for grabs in each group, Wales have rarely had a better chance of reaching a major tournament for the first time since 1958.
But Chris Coleman's side suffered an early scare after falling behind against an Andorra side looking to add to a meagre tally of five points from 82 qualifiers since being ratified as a Fifa nation in 2000.
Their hopes were thwarted by Bale, though, as the Real Madrid winger scored twice - his winning effort a curling a free-kick that came just nine minutes from time to spare Wales' blushes in the Group B clash.
Captain Ildefons Lima scored the hosts' first competitive goal in four years early in the first half by converting a penalty to give Andorra, ranked 199th in the world, hope of claiming only the second competitive victory in their history.
Bale soon levelled with a header and, just when it appeared that Andorra were going to hold on for a famous point, the 25-year-old produced a moment of quality that broke the underdogs' hearts and served as another example of why Real paid a world-record transfer fee for his services.
The visitors enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges but surprisingly fell behind in the sixth minute through Lima's spot-kick.
Centre-back Lima stepped up to convert from 12 yards after Neil Taylor had been dubiously adjudged to have brought down Ivan Lorenzo.
Wales immediately reassumed their dominance as they pressed to find a quick leveller, Bale offering a warning sign as to his threat in the air as he headed narrowly over the crossbar from Joe Allen's corner.
Andorra did not learn from that near-miss, though, and were punished by Bale after 22 minutes when he towered above the home defence to glance home Ben Davies' perfectly placed left-wing cross.
But Coleman's men were far from impressive going forward and only when Bale got into promising areas were they really able to trouble a surprisingly resolute Andorra defence.
Bale forced a good save from Ferran Pol with a curling free-kick 12 minutes into the second half before seeing an excellent cross headed wide by striker Andy King.
The opportunities continued to come for former Tottenham star Bale, who saw a header acrobatically cleared off the line by midfielder Josep Ayala in a fitting demonstration of Andorra's heroic defensive effort.
Yet that effort proved to be for nought as Bale fired home from a set-piece at the second time asking after seeing his first effort saved by Pol, only for the referee to demand a retake due to encroachment in a costly error by Andorra striker Gabi Riera.
A dramatic late goal from Gareth Bale gave Wales an unconvincing 2-1 win over Andorra in their Euro 2016 qualifier on Tuesday.
With two automatic qualification spots and one play-off place up for grabs in each group, Wales have rarely had a better chance of reaching a major tournament for the first time since 1958.
But Chris Coleman's side suffered an early scare after falling behind against an Andorra side looking to add to a meagre tally of five points from 82 qualifiers since being ratified as a Fifa nation in 2000.
Their hopes were thwarted by Bale, though, as the Real Madrid winger scored twice - his winning effort a curling a free-kick that came just nine minutes from time to spare Wales' blushes in the Group B clash.
Captain Ildefons Lima scored the hosts' first competitive goal in four years early in the first half by converting a penalty to give Andorra, ranked 199th in the world, hope of claiming only the second competitive victory in their history.
Bale soon levelled with a header and, just when it appeared that Andorra were going to hold on for a famous point, the 25-year-old produced a moment of quality that broke the underdogs' hearts and served as another example of why Real paid a world-record transfer fee for his services.
The visitors enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges but surprisingly fell behind in the sixth minute through Lima's spot-kick.
Centre-back Lima stepped up to convert from 12 yards after Neil Taylor had been dubiously adjudged to have brought down Ivan Lorenzo.
Wales immediately reassumed their dominance as they pressed to find a quick leveller, Bale offering a warning sign as to his threat in the air as he headed narrowly over the crossbar from Joe Allen's corner.
Andorra did not learn from that near-miss, though, and were punished by Bale after 22 minutes when he towered above the home defence to glance home Ben Davies' perfectly placed left-wing cross.
But Coleman's men were far from impressive going forward and only when Bale got into promising areas were they really able to trouble a surprisingly resolute Andorra defence.
Bale forced a good save from Ferran Pol with a curling free-kick 12 minutes into the second half before seeing an excellent cross headed wide by striker Andy King.
The opportunities continued to come for former Tottenham star Bale, who saw a header acrobatically cleared off the line by midfielder Josep Ayala in a fitting demonstration of Andorra's heroic defensive effort.
Yet that effort proved to be for nought as Bale fired home from a set-piece at the second time asking after seeing his first effort saved by Pol, only for the referee to demand a retake due to encroachment in a costly error by Andorra striker Gabi Riera.
Czech Republic 2-1 Netherlands: Pilar steals the win for hosts
Vaclav Pilar's stoppage-time strike ensured the Czech Republic consigned Netherlands to a shock 2-1 Euro 2016 qualifying defeat in Prague.
Substitute Pilar was on hand to apply a simple finish one minute into time added on in the Group A opener at Generali Arena to punish a dreadful mistake from Daryl Janmaat.
The Newcastle United defender attempted to cushion a header back to goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, but hit the post and midfielder Pilar could not believe his luck as he turned the ball in from just a couple of yards out.
Lazio defender Stefan de Vrij looked to have ensured Guus Hiddink avoided defeat in his first competitive game since returning for a second spell as coach of his country when he headed home 10 minutes into the second half until a late twist.
Borek Dockal put the home side in front with a stunning strike on Tuesday and coach Pavel Vrba was able to mark his maiden competitive match in charge of the Czech Republic by securing his first win as an international coach courtesy of Pilar's last-gasp goal.
Netherlands failed to recreate the sort of performances that saw them finish third in the World Cup in Brazil and were made to pay.
Midfield duo Lukas Vacha and Dockal came into the Czech side along with striker David Lafata, while Hiddink opted to replace Jeremain Lens and Dirk Kuyt with in-form forward Memphis Depay and defender Joel Veltman as he changed from the 4-3-3 formation he used in Friday's defeat to Italy to the 5-3-2 his predecessor Louis van Gaal used in the World Cup.
Hiddink bemoaned his side's "naive" defending in their 2-0 defeat against Italy last Thursday and they were at it again early on in Prague.
It needed an important intervention from De Vrij to block Vladimir Darida's shot after the visitors were caught napping when the Czechs took a short corner.
Netherlands failed to heed the warning and were behind 21 minutes in courtesy of a sublime finish from Dockal.
The Sparta Prague man beat Cillessen with a sublime left-footed finish that went in off the post after Lafata had laid the ball off to him outside the penalty area.
Georginio Wijnaldum spurned a chance to equalise only five minutes later, when he burst into the box unmarked but his control let him down.
Hiddink made a tactical change seven minutes before half-time, with Luciano Narsingh replacing Veltman and Netherlands switched from three centre-halves to a back four.
The lively Depay came into the game brimming with confidence, having scored eight goals already this season for PSV, and he almost added an international goal to that tally when his long-range drive was tipped over by Petr Cech.
Narsingh showed a lack of composure when he surged into the area just before the break as Netherlands started to get into their stride.
The Czech Republic were pegged back 10 minutes into the second half, though, as De Vrij rose highest to head home Daley Blind's inviting cross from the left.
Robin van Persie's eyes lit up when he was presented with a sight of goal, but would have been relieved to see the flag up for offside after Cech kept out his attempt on goal.
Pilar then had the final say as he converted from point-blank range after Janmaat got his header all wrong right at the death and was left red-faced.
Hiddink 'livid' with Netherlands defeat
Netherlands coach Guus Hiddink says he was "livid" with his side after their 2-1 defeat to Czech Republic on Tuesday.
The Oranje's Euro 2016 qualification campaign got off to a disappointing start as Daryl Janmaat's defensive blunder allowed Vaclav Pilar to steal a win for the hosts in stoppage-time.After the match, the coach, who is now in charge of the national team for a second time, did not hide his anger.
"I am livid," he told NOS. "In the last seconds of a game, you should never lose.
"We could have left here with a 1-1 draw, but we gave it away in a stupid way. Even when I talk about it now, I am still really mad about it."When I look at the situation clearly, which is very difficult for me in the current situation, I think that Memphis Depay was our best player. That's a good point for the future, no more than that."
Hiddink wasn't the only one enraged by the team's display, as Wesley Sneijder also said the players should be disappointed with their start to the campaign."I'm very angry," the midfielder said. "We need to look in the mirror. It's not about the coach or the system, this has something to do with the players.
"We can't look back at the World Cup anymore, that's useless. If you play away at Czech Republic, you need to fight. Of course, Arjen Robben is important, but even without him we had to win here in Prague."
Netherlands coach Guus Hiddink says he was "livid" with his side after their 2-1 defeat to Czech Republic on Tuesday.
The Oranje's Euro 2016 qualification campaign got off to a disappointing start as Daryl Janmaat's defensive blunder allowed Vaclav Pilar to steal a win for the hosts in stoppage-time.After the match, the coach, who is now in charge of the national team for a second time, did not hide his anger.
"I am livid," he told NOS. "In the last seconds of a game, you should never lose.
"We could have left here with a 1-1 draw, but we gave it away in a stupid way. Even when I talk about it now, I am still really mad about it."When I look at the situation clearly, which is very difficult for me in the current situation, I think that Memphis Depay was our best player. That's a good point for the future, no more than that."
Hiddink wasn't the only one enraged by the team's display, as Wesley Sneijder also said the players should be disappointed with their start to the campaign."I'm very angry," the midfielder said. "We need to look in the mirror. It's not about the coach or the system, this has something to do with the players.
"We can't look back at the World Cup anymore, that's useless. If you play away at Czech Republic, you need to fight. Of course, Arjen Robben is important, but even without him we had to win here in Prague."
Janmaat: Netherlands' defeat is all my fault
Netherlands defender Daryl Janmaat has said he is the man to blame after a blunder allowed the Czech Republic to score a stoppage-time winner in their opening Euro 2016 qualifier.
A Borek Dockal stunner gave the hosts the lead before Stefan de Vrij's second-half header tied things up. But just as the sides looked destined to share the spoils, Janmaat tried to head a cross back to Jasper Cillessen only for the ball to hit the post and allow substitute Vaclav Pilar an easy finish to give the hosts a 2-1 win.
Janmaat said he takes full responsibility for the defeat, insisting his side really should have won the game.
"Yes, that's right. This is my fault and it is inexcusable," he told NOS when asked if he felt he was the man to blame for the loss."It was a big mistake, I wanted to head the ball back to Jasper, but I didn't hit it well. Now I've scored a sort of own goal and feel very bad about it. It felt like the ground had been swept away underneath me. Czech Republic away isn't easy, but we had to win this one."
The Newcastle right-back's disappointment was shared by Robin van Persie, who insisted the Oranje must win their next game."It wasn't good at all - a 1-1 draw wouldn't have been that bad, but to give it away like this is very bad," the Manchester United striker said.
"We had a lot of the ball, but we didn't do much good with it. What do we need to change? We need to win next time."
Netherlands defender Daryl Janmaat has said he is the man to blame after a blunder allowed the Czech Republic to score a stoppage-time winner in their opening Euro 2016 qualifier.
A Borek Dockal stunner gave the hosts the lead before Stefan de Vrij's second-half header tied things up. But just as the sides looked destined to share the spoils, Janmaat tried to head a cross back to Jasper Cillessen only for the ball to hit the post and allow substitute Vaclav Pilar an easy finish to give the hosts a 2-1 win.
Janmaat said he takes full responsibility for the defeat, insisting his side really should have won the game.
"Yes, that's right. This is my fault and it is inexcusable," he told NOS when asked if he felt he was the man to blame for the loss."It was a big mistake, I wanted to head the ball back to Jasper, but I didn't hit it well. Now I've scored a sort of own goal and feel very bad about it. It felt like the ground had been swept away underneath me. Czech Republic away isn't easy, but we had to win this one."
The Newcastle right-back's disappointment was shared by Robin van Persie, who insisted the Oranje must win their next game."It wasn't good at all - a 1-1 draw wouldn't have been that bad, but to give it away like this is very bad," the Manchester United striker said.
"We had a lot of the ball, but we didn't do much good with it. What do we need to change? We need to win next time."
Conte delighted with 'great' start in charge of Italy
Antonio Conte is happy with the progress Italy have made in his first two games in charge, insisting they have done "great things" so far.
Conte's men followed up a 2-0 win over Netherlands last week by beating Norway by the same scoreline in the 45-year-old's first competitive fixture on Tuesday.
Goals from Simone Zaza and Leonardo Bonucci earned the points as Italy began their Euro 2016 Group H qualifying campaign perfectly.
Conte, who arrived with much fanfare having guided Juventus to three successive Serie A titles, is pleased with the early signs but says there is plenty of hard work still ahead.
"It was an important match and certainly not easy, as we hadn't won in Norway for decades, so these are always tricky games," Conte told Rai Sport.
"I think in nine days we have done some great things with these lads. Now we have to get to know each other better, progress and improve."
The coach praised his team for the way they dismantled Norway.
He added: "I don't recall Buffon getting his gloves dirty, whereas we created many dangerous opportunities to round out the scoreline. It won't be easy for anyone to play here in Norway, so I am satisfied.
"We're doing well, these lads want to apply my vision of football: sometimes we did that better, other times not so much. I liked the attempt to play from the back and take advantage of spaces behind the Norwegian defence.
"In tactical terms I think you could see some very good situations, including the goals. I am happy with what the lads have given me, as they are prepared to work.
"There were seven players who didn't take part in the last World Cup game, many of the squad are 23 or 24 years old. I always look to the pitch and those who deserve it will play."
Antonio Conte is happy with the progress Italy have made in his first two games in charge, insisting they have done "great things" so far.
Conte's men followed up a 2-0 win over Netherlands last week by beating Norway by the same scoreline in the 45-year-old's first competitive fixture on Tuesday.
Goals from Simone Zaza and Leonardo Bonucci earned the points as Italy began their Euro 2016 Group H qualifying campaign perfectly.
Conte, who arrived with much fanfare having guided Juventus to three successive Serie A titles, is pleased with the early signs but says there is plenty of hard work still ahead.
"It was an important match and certainly not easy, as we hadn't won in Norway for decades, so these are always tricky games," Conte told Rai Sport.
"I think in nine days we have done some great things with these lads. Now we have to get to know each other better, progress and improve."
The coach praised his team for the way they dismantled Norway.
He added: "I don't recall Buffon getting his gloves dirty, whereas we created many dangerous opportunities to round out the scoreline. It won't be easy for anyone to play here in Norway, so I am satisfied.
"We're doing well, these lads want to apply my vision of football: sometimes we did that better, other times not so much. I liked the attempt to play from the back and take advantage of spaces behind the Norwegian defence.
"In tactical terms I think you could see some very good situations, including the goals. I am happy with what the lads have given me, as they are prepared to work.
"There were seven players who didn't take part in the last World Cup game, many of the squad are 23 or 24 years old. I always look to the pitch and those who deserve it will play."
Ramsey injured in Wales qualifier
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey limped out of Wales' Euro 2016 qualifier against Andorra as they got their campaign off to a winning start.
Ramsey appeared to slip on the 3G pitch as he controlled the ball in stoppage time, and was replaced by Wigan Athletic's Emyr Huws after receiving treatment.
The Estadi Comunal d'Andorra la Vella surface passed laboratory tests before it was deemed playable for its first competitive fixture, but both teams struggled to get to grips with the artificial grass.
Two goals from Gareth Bale proved the difference, with the Real Madrid man curling in a fine free kick nine minutes from time to secure an unconvincing victory, but that was overshadowed by Ramsey's late injury.
Arsenal face Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund within the next seven days as they look to manage Champions League football alongside their domestic aspirations, with Ramsey set to play a major role.
The former Cardiff City star has scored twice in the Gunners' opening three Premier League games, including a last-minute winner against Crystal Palace on the opening weekend.
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey limped out of Wales' Euro 2016 qualifier against Andorra as they got their campaign off to a winning start.
Ramsey appeared to slip on the 3G pitch as he controlled the ball in stoppage time, and was replaced by Wigan Athletic's Emyr Huws after receiving treatment.
The Estadi Comunal d'Andorra la Vella surface passed laboratory tests before it was deemed playable for its first competitive fixture, but both teams struggled to get to grips with the artificial grass.
Two goals from Gareth Bale proved the difference, with the Real Madrid man curling in a fine free kick nine minutes from time to secure an unconvincing victory, but that was overshadowed by Ramsey's late injury.
Arsenal face Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund within the next seven days as they look to manage Champions League football alongside their domestic aspirations, with Ramsey set to play a major role.
The former Cardiff City star has scored twice in the Gunners' opening three Premier League games, including a last-minute winner against Crystal Palace on the opening weekend.
De Boer: Suarez still loves Ajax
Ajax coach Frank de Boer believes Barcelona forward Luis Suarez still has love for the Dutch club and is looking forward to coming up against him and several other former players in the Champions League.The Dutch champions have been drawn into Group F in the competition this season, alongside Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Apoel Nicosia.
The draw will see the likes of former Ajax players Luis Suarez, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Gregory van der Wiel and Maxwell face the Amsterdam side once again. And De Boer believes each player has developed well since they left Netherlands."Maybe Suarez still has love for the club. He gave us some very nice results," De Boer told Ajax's official website.
"Gregory van der Wiel is developing into one of the best right-backs in the world.
"Maxwell has so much experience; he won't be scared about a match at the highest level. He is in great form as well.
"And then there is Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He impresses every time, everywhere. I am sure that he will focus on winning the Champions League this season."
Ajax begin their campaign at home against PSG on September 17.
Ajax coach Frank de Boer believes Barcelona forward Luis Suarez still has love for the Dutch club and is looking forward to coming up against him and several other former players in the Champions League.The Dutch champions have been drawn into Group F in the competition this season, alongside Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Apoel Nicosia.
The draw will see the likes of former Ajax players Luis Suarez, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Gregory van der Wiel and Maxwell face the Amsterdam side once again. And De Boer believes each player has developed well since they left Netherlands."Maybe Suarez still has love for the club. He gave us some very nice results," De Boer told Ajax's official website.
"Gregory van der Wiel is developing into one of the best right-backs in the world.
"Maxwell has so much experience; he won't be scared about a match at the highest level. He is in great form as well.
"And then there is Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He impresses every time, everywhere. I am sure that he will focus on winning the Champions League this season."
Ajax begin their campaign at home against PSG on September 17.
Vertonghen close to new Tottenham deal - agent
Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen is close to signing a new deal with the club, according to his agent, Mustapha Nakhli.
Goal revealed in July that Mauricio Pochettino was keen to offer the Belgium international a new deal at White Hart Lane, with the new manager eager to keep his best players the club.
Vertonghen had admitted to being "flattered" by interest from Barcelona over the summer but his agent says that he wants to stay in north London.
"We have spoken to Daniel Levy about a new contract for Jan and the negotiations were very good – we hope to sort everything out very soon," he told Sky Sports.
"He is happy at Tottenham and wants to play for the club. He wants to play Champions League with Tottenham and he has a very good feeling about the new manager.
"Last year they made many changes and brought in many new players and it was not so good but this season it is possible for Tottenham to qualify for the Champions League."
However, Nakhli also claims that Vertonghen's long-term future at the club could depend on whether or not the club finish in the top four this season.
"Playing at the highest level is, of course, very important for Jan," he added. "If Tottenham do not qualify for the Champions League this year then we will have to see what happens next summer."
Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen is close to signing a new deal with the club, according to his agent, Mustapha Nakhli.
Goal revealed in July that Mauricio Pochettino was keen to offer the Belgium international a new deal at White Hart Lane, with the new manager eager to keep his best players the club.
Vertonghen had admitted to being "flattered" by interest from Barcelona over the summer but his agent says that he wants to stay in north London.
"We have spoken to Daniel Levy about a new contract for Jan and the negotiations were very good – we hope to sort everything out very soon," he told Sky Sports.
"He is happy at Tottenham and wants to play for the club. He wants to play Champions League with Tottenham and he has a very good feeling about the new manager.
"Last year they made many changes and brought in many new players and it was not so good but this season it is possible for Tottenham to qualify for the Champions League."
However, Nakhli also claims that Vertonghen's long-term future at the club could depend on whether or not the club finish in the top four this season.
"Playing at the highest level is, of course, very important for Jan," he added. "If Tottenham do not qualify for the Champions League this year then we will have to see what happens next summer."
Ribery declares himself fit to face Stuttgart
Franck Ribery has declared himself fit for Bayern Munich 's Bundesliga clash with Stuttgart on Saturday.
The winger has been in the headlines in recent days after Uefa chief Michel Platini suggested he could face disciplinary sanctions if he fails to turn up in the event of being selected for the national team, despite having announced his retirement from the international game last month.
Ribery missed the World Cup in Brazil after suffering a back injury shortly before the finals, and is yet to feature in competitive action for Bayern this season after struggling with knee problems.
Bayern head coach Pep Guardiola stated on August 21 that the 31-year-old would be out for "two or three weeks", and on Tuesday Ribery claimed he was now ready for action.
"I'm feeling good and I'm fit for Saturday," he told Bayern's official website following a training session.
"Now I just need to find my rhythm."
Bayern have also insisted the matter of Ribery's international involvement "has been resolved" and are adamant he would not receive sanctions for his decision to opt out of France duty.
Franck Ribery has declared himself fit for Bayern Munich 's Bundesliga clash with Stuttgart on Saturday.
The winger has been in the headlines in recent days after Uefa chief Michel Platini suggested he could face disciplinary sanctions if he fails to turn up in the event of being selected for the national team, despite having announced his retirement from the international game last month.
Ribery missed the World Cup in Brazil after suffering a back injury shortly before the finals, and is yet to feature in competitive action for Bayern this season after struggling with knee problems.
Bayern head coach Pep Guardiola stated on August 21 that the 31-year-old would be out for "two or three weeks", and on Tuesday Ribery claimed he was now ready for action.
"I'm feeling good and I'm fit for Saturday," he told Bayern's official website following a training session.
"Now I just need to find my rhythm."
Bayern have also insisted the matter of Ribery's international involvement "has been resolved" and are adamant he would not receive sanctions for his decision to opt out of France duty.
Dzeko: Chelsea are Manchester City's biggest threat
Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko has warned of the danger posed by Arsenal ahead of the match on Saturday - though he maintains Chelsea are his side's biggest title rivals.
The Bosnian, who is set to line up for Manuel Pellegrini's men at the Emirates Stadium after the international break, sees Arsene Wenger's side as a genuine challenger for City's Premier League crown.
"[The Arsenal game] will be difficult but I'm an optimist," he told the club's official website.
"As with every season, there are several teams that will battle for the title of champions in England.
"This season Chelsea might be the most serious challenger but we mustn't ignore Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, or [Manchester] United, who will certainly be much stronger than last year. After all, everyone has got stronger and everyone wants to be first."
The 28-year-old penned a new four-year deal at the Etihad Stadium in August and says that he had no hesitation in putting pen to paper after winning the Premier League and League Cup last season.
"The past season was one of the best in my career and, in the end, we reached the title of champions of England, the second in the past three seasons," he enthused.
"We succeeded in winning the [League] Cup and I am really happy how everything played out in the past season, both for the club and for myself.
"As far as the contract, in general I had no dilemma around an extension. I am happy at City, the manager believes in me, which is certainly important, and I give my all on the pitch and altogether it means quite a lot to me because Manchester is a club with great ambitions and I easily decided to stay put."
Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko has warned of the danger posed by Arsenal ahead of the match on Saturday - though he maintains Chelsea are his side's biggest title rivals.
The Bosnian, who is set to line up for Manuel Pellegrini's men at the Emirates Stadium after the international break, sees Arsene Wenger's side as a genuine challenger for City's Premier League crown.
"[The Arsenal game] will be difficult but I'm an optimist," he told the club's official website.
"As with every season, there are several teams that will battle for the title of champions in England.
"This season Chelsea might be the most serious challenger but we mustn't ignore Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, or [Manchester] United, who will certainly be much stronger than last year. After all, everyone has got stronger and everyone wants to be first."
The 28-year-old penned a new four-year deal at the Etihad Stadium in August and says that he had no hesitation in putting pen to paper after winning the Premier League and League Cup last season.
"The past season was one of the best in my career and, in the end, we reached the title of champions of England, the second in the past three seasons," he enthused.
"We succeeded in winning the [League] Cup and I am really happy how everything played out in the past season, both for the club and for myself.
"As far as the contract, in general I had no dilemma around an extension. I am happy at City, the manager believes in me, which is certainly important, and I give my all on the pitch and altogether it means quite a lot to me because Manchester is a club with great ambitions and I easily decided to stay put."
Spain have to learn to live with criticism - Silva
David Silva is refusing to worry about criticism levelled at Spain's style of play as they aim to move on from their World Cup disappointment.
After the defence of their 2010 title ended in spectacular failure with a group-stage exit in Brazil, Spain's possession-based style came under intense scrutiny, with their friendly defeat to France doing little to alleviate the doubt.
Vicente del Bosque's side got their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign off to a convincing start on Monday, though, with a 5-1 rout of Macedonia in Valencia.
Silva netted the fourth of his side's goals after an inspired all-round performance, and the Manchester City man insists he and his team-mates can not worry about how others perceive them.
"We have to learn to live with the criticism," he said.
"At the very least there are always doubts and at this level we have to accept that, but we always try to do our best.
"We need to keep the ball, that’s essential, and we also need more depth. Personally I like to play in the centre but I always go where the team needs me."
Pedro rounded off the scoring for Spain in second-half stoppage time, but concedes he is still lacking a little in the way of match fitness.
"I've done quite well in the last two games with the Spanish team but I've lacked rhythm," said the Barcelona winger.
"Little by little I'm getting better and with the help of my team-mates I'll get back to my level."
David Silva is refusing to worry about criticism levelled at Spain's style of play as they aim to move on from their World Cup disappointment.
After the defence of their 2010 title ended in spectacular failure with a group-stage exit in Brazil, Spain's possession-based style came under intense scrutiny, with their friendly defeat to France doing little to alleviate the doubt.
Vicente del Bosque's side got their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign off to a convincing start on Monday, though, with a 5-1 rout of Macedonia in Valencia.
Silva netted the fourth of his side's goals after an inspired all-round performance, and the Manchester City man insists he and his team-mates can not worry about how others perceive them.
"We have to learn to live with the criticism," he said.
"At the very least there are always doubts and at this level we have to accept that, but we always try to do our best.
"We need to keep the ball, that’s essential, and we also need more depth. Personally I like to play in the centre but I always go where the team needs me."
Pedro rounded off the scoring for Spain in second-half stoppage time, but concedes he is still lacking a little in the way of match fitness.
"I've done quite well in the last two games with the Spanish team but I've lacked rhythm," said the Barcelona winger.
"Little by little I'm getting better and with the help of my team-mates I'll get back to my level."
Sterling is England's David Silva - Redknapp
Raheem Sterling is already England's best player and frightens defenders in the same manner as Manchester City and Spain star David Silva, according to Jamie Redknapp.
Sterling has enjoyed a meteoric rise since breaking back into the Liverpool team midway through their surprise title challenge last season and, at 19, has already established himself as a key figure for club and country.
The teenager started in the No.10 position and was involved in both goals as England kicked off their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign with an impressive 2-0 win in Switzerland on Monday.
And in his column for the Daily Mail, former England international Redknapp said of Sterling: "He is such a weapon for England and Liverpool. He is now our best player - aged 19 - and defenders are frightened of him.
"Raheem Sterling is England’s David Silva. He doesn't manipulate the ball like the Spaniard, but he can play between the lines and he has something Silva doesn't have: destructive pace.
"The pass he delivered for the [opening] goal was with his left foot and I can't see a weakness in his game. Credit to Brendan Rodgers for developing him and he will get better."
Sterling initially featured as a winger for Liverpool but has since been utilised in a more central creative role for club and country, and Redknapp was pleased to see the youngster occupy a position behind Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney on Monday.
"England have to play him through the middle. That's where the best players play," Redknapp added. "Get him on the ball and facing up to defenders. He will win free-kicks and penalties and he will score goals."
Raheem Sterling is already England's best player and frightens defenders in the same manner as Manchester City and Spain star David Silva, according to Jamie Redknapp.
Sterling has enjoyed a meteoric rise since breaking back into the Liverpool team midway through their surprise title challenge last season and, at 19, has already established himself as a key figure for club and country.
The teenager started in the No.10 position and was involved in both goals as England kicked off their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign with an impressive 2-0 win in Switzerland on Monday.
And in his column for the Daily Mail, former England international Redknapp said of Sterling: "He is such a weapon for England and Liverpool. He is now our best player - aged 19 - and defenders are frightened of him.
"Raheem Sterling is England’s David Silva. He doesn't manipulate the ball like the Spaniard, but he can play between the lines and he has something Silva doesn't have: destructive pace.
"The pass he delivered for the [opening] goal was with his left foot and I can't see a weakness in his game. Credit to Brendan Rodgers for developing him and he will get better."
Sterling initially featured as a winger for Liverpool but has since been utilised in a more central creative role for club and country, and Redknapp was pleased to see the youngster occupy a position behind Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney on Monday.
"England have to play him through the middle. That's where the best players play," Redknapp added. "Get him on the ball and facing up to defenders. He will win free-kicks and penalties and he will score goals."
Wilshere: I'm trying to emulate Pirlo & Mascherano
Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere plans to study the likes of Andrea Pirlo and Javier Mascherano to refine his skills as a defensive midfielder.
The Gunners star was deployed at the base of a midfield diamond in the Three Lions’ 2-0 win over Switzerland in Euro 2016 qualifying on Monday and was pleased with his performance in the unfamiliar role.
And anticipating more chances in that position under Roy Hodgson, Wilshere insists he is keen to learn from the best in the world.
"I spoke with the manager and Gary Neville in the week and they told me they wanted me to play that role and I quite enjoyed it,” he told the FA’s official website.
"It was my first time ever playing there so, over the next month or so, I am going to look at a few videos of this game and of players who play in that position regularly - Pirlo, Mascherano and players like that - and I’ll get better.
"I felt it went well [on Monday] but, next time we meet up, I feel it can only go better."
England’s victory in Basel came after criticism for their performance in scraping past Norway in a friendly on Wednesday and Wilshere was delighted to have his pre-match confidence vindicated by the result.
"We didn’t surprise ourselves,” he added. “I know a few people have been saying a few things but we believed in ourselves and we showed that [against Switzerland].
"We knew the longer the second half went on at 0-0, they weren’t going to be happy, the fans weren’t going to be happy and we used that.
"We won the ball back in a dangerous position and we used our pace. We got the goal and we knew again they were going to come out. We had to stay together, defend well and we did that so we are happy."
Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere plans to study the likes of Andrea Pirlo and Javier Mascherano to refine his skills as a defensive midfielder.
The Gunners star was deployed at the base of a midfield diamond in the Three Lions’ 2-0 win over Switzerland in Euro 2016 qualifying on Monday and was pleased with his performance in the unfamiliar role.
And anticipating more chances in that position under Roy Hodgson, Wilshere insists he is keen to learn from the best in the world.
"I spoke with the manager and Gary Neville in the week and they told me they wanted me to play that role and I quite enjoyed it,” he told the FA’s official website.
"It was my first time ever playing there so, over the next month or so, I am going to look at a few videos of this game and of players who play in that position regularly - Pirlo, Mascherano and players like that - and I’ll get better.
"I felt it went well [on Monday] but, next time we meet up, I feel it can only go better."
England’s victory in Basel came after criticism for their performance in scraping past Norway in a friendly on Wednesday and Wilshere was delighted to have his pre-match confidence vindicated by the result.
"We didn’t surprise ourselves,” he added. “I know a few people have been saying a few things but we believed in ourselves and we showed that [against Switzerland].
"We knew the longer the second half went on at 0-0, they weren’t going to be happy, the fans weren’t going to be happy and we used that.
"We won the ball back in a dangerous position and we used our pace. We got the goal and we knew again they were going to come out. We had to stay together, defend well and we did that so we are happy."
Man United won't struggle under Van Gaal - Charlton
Sir Bobby Charlton expects Manchester United to go on a “great adventure” under Louis van Gaal this season.
United endured a dismal season under David Moyes last term, finishing seventh and subsequently missing out on European football entirely.
But Charlton is sure the Dutchman can turn the club’s fortunes around and believes United – who acquired such stars as Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao in the summer – will benefit from having no Champions League commitments in 2014-15.
“It seems strange that Manchester United aren’t involved in European football for a season,” Charlton told the Daily Mail. “It’s crazy but maybe it can make things easier for us.
“We’ve started with some new players, we’ve not been playing well but we will play well. I think that it’s going to be a great adventure of how we pull ourselves back round and get back to the way it used to be.”
Van Gaal has overseen two draws in his opening three Premier League games as Red Devils manager but Charlton is sure United will soon get back to winning ways.
“He has given me and most of us fans some good news,” he added. “We won’t struggle, definitely we won’t struggle any more.
“It’s just such a strange environment the way that it’s all happened, that Manchester United is out of the news but it won’t be for very long.”
Sir Bobby Charlton expects Manchester United to go on a “great adventure” under Louis van Gaal this season.
United endured a dismal season under David Moyes last term, finishing seventh and subsequently missing out on European football entirely.
But Charlton is sure the Dutchman can turn the club’s fortunes around and believes United – who acquired such stars as Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao in the summer – will benefit from having no Champions League commitments in 2014-15.
“It seems strange that Manchester United aren’t involved in European football for a season,” Charlton told the Daily Mail. “It’s crazy but maybe it can make things easier for us.
“We’ve started with some new players, we’ve not been playing well but we will play well. I think that it’s going to be a great adventure of how we pull ourselves back round and get back to the way it used to be.”
Van Gaal has overseen two draws in his opening three Premier League games as Red Devils manager but Charlton is sure United will soon get back to winning ways.
“He has given me and most of us fans some good news,” he added. “We won’t struggle, definitely we won’t struggle any more.
“It’s just such a strange environment the way that it’s all happened, that Manchester United is out of the news but it won’t be for very long.”
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